Park News National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior

Big South Fork Visitor Guide The official newspaper of 2006 Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Inside

Eastern National page 2 Special Events 2006 page 2 Welcome Message from the Superintendent page 3 Make Your First Stop Here page 3 Emergency Numbers page 3 Campground Reservations page 4 Bandy Creek and Blue Heron Campground Maps page 4 General Information page 5 Hunting Seasons page 5 Parks on the Internet page 5 Spring Planting Day page 6 Astronomy Programs page 6 Storytelling Festival page 6 Cultural Heritage Days page 6 New Trail Markers page 7 Blue Tail Skinks page 8 BSF Fire Season page 8 GMP and ATV Use page 9 Burnt Mill Bridge page 9 Volunteers in Parks - VIPs page 10 Resource Protection HotLine page 10 Protecting Our Archeological Sites page 10 Junior Ranger page 11 Historic Rugby page 11 Alvin C. York State Historic Park page 11 Cumberland Falls State Park, KY page 12 Pickett State Park, TN - Hazard Cave page 12 Friends of the Big South Fork page 12

Big South Fork Guide - 2006 -1 2006 Special Events All events are Eastern Time Photographs on cover and Program Calendar All Programs are Subject to Change On left top: Big South Fork River and gorge. Spring Planting Festival Contact Bandy Creek Visitor Center at (423) 286-7275 Top right: Spring Planting Day with Joye Gowan spinning and Koy Flowers' mules in the April 29 - Spring Planting Day- 10:00 a.m. until (PARK), the Stearns Depot Visitor Center (606) 376- 5073 or the Blue Heron Interpretive Center (606) backgound. Bottom left: Angel falls in winter. 5:00 p.m. Join in a celebration of spring from the late Fall mushrooms and spring Trout lilies in center 1800s through the early 1900s. Demonstrations of 376-3787 for program details. Also see page 6 for more information about the special events. bottom. All photographs courtesy of the National horse and mule drawn equipment, plowing, planting, Park Service. dulcimer music, farm animals and tasks of the home- maker will be going on throughout the day.

Astronomy May 20- Solar Viewing - 3:30 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. If you are looking for information and unique items A Year in the Big South Fork - a wonderful, photo- weather permitting Bandy Creek Visitor Center. concerning Big South Fork, check out the bookstores graphic presentation depicting the beauty of Big May 20 - Astronomy - Bandy Creek - 9:00 p.m. located at Bandy Creek and the Stearns Depot Visitor South Fork. Summers $9.95 Paul Lewis from the University of Tennessee. Center. The bookstores are operated by Eastern July - Astronomy - Bandy Creek - 9:00 p.m. Paul National, a non-profit cooperating association Natural Arches of the Big South Fork - an arch Lewis from the University of Tennessee. founded in 1947 and authorized by Congress to work hunter's delight, a guide to the most accessible arches October - Astronomy - Bandy Creek with America’s National Parks and other public trusts. in the area. McDade $12.95 Other Astronomy Programs will be offered at The mission of Eastern National is to provide quality Obed Wild and Scenic River (423) 346-6294. educational and interpretive products to the public. Big South Fork Children’s Guide and Coloring Book - an excellent way to introduce children to the National Trails Day - June 3 . Volunteers will Eastern provides a variety of unique items that will wonders of Big South Fork National River and be working throughout the park on hiking, biking, enhance your visit. Items offered for sale include Recreation Area. Duncan $2.50 horse and multiple-use trails. National Trails Day is maps, trail guides, books of local interest and held each year throughout the United States. Thou- unique craft items. By purchasing an item from the New items: sands of volunteers participate in work projects in bookstore, you are supporting Big South Fork. South Fork Country - an excellent book dealing national areas, parks and forests. If you would like to Eastern returns a percentage of its profits to use for with the early history of the Big South Fork River volunteer, Contact Wally Linder for further informa- promoting the historical, scientific and conservation and the region around it. Perry $21.95 tion at (423)569-2404 ext. 321. activities of the National Park Service. Among other projects, these donations are used to fund publica- Folk life along the Big South Fork of the Cumberland Storytelling Festival tions such as this newspaper. Membership in River - an in-depth look at the people and culture Eastern National entitles you to a discount on that are unique to the Cumberland Plateau. Howell September 23 - Dulcimer Workshop merchandise and helps support the programs of the $30.50. Bring your own dulcimer and learn to play a tune. National Park Service. For more information about Two beginners' sessions will be held beginning 9:00 Eastern National or to become a member, visit a.m. until 12:00 p.m. and again at 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 www.EasternNational.org. p.m. A limited number of dulcimers will be on hand for the public’s use. Please sign up in advance for Any item you see in our bookstore can be ordered by this workshop by calling (423) 286-7275. mail, by telephone or by visiting the Big South Fork web site. If ordering by mail, you may use a personal Storytelling Festival Craft Workshops check made payable to “Eastern National” or you Learn about some of our old time crafts of the region may use a credit or debit card when ordering by through classes and demonstrations. Crafts offered phone. All items are subject to tax, shipping and may include tatting (old time lace making), quilting, handling charges that apply. An order form may be wood carving, soap making, survival skills and basket downloaded from the Big South Fork web site at making. Class participants will be asked for a dona- www.nps.gov/biso. Call (423) 286-7275 or write to tion to assist with class materials and instructor fees. Eastern National Bookstore, 4564 Leatherwood Sign up for classes will be done in advance. Please Road, Oneida, Tennessee 37841. call Bandy Creek Visitor Center at (423) 286 -7275 to check about classes offered and to sign up with your Below are some popular items from the bookstore. name and address to reserve a place in a class. Each class will be a minimum of 4 hours in length. Classes National Geographic, Big South Fork Trail Map by will be scheduled throughout the day beginning at Trails Illustrated - a large scale, topographic map of 9:00 a.m. and ending at 5:00 p.m. the entire system of designated hiking, horse and mountain bike trails. Waterproof and tear resistant. Haunting in the Hills Storytelling and Evening $9.95 Presentations 3:00 p.m. Special Local Tellers Hiking the Big South Fork - a complete guide to 5:00 p.m. Knoxville Area Dulcimer Club Concert hiking trails in Big South Fork and selected trails in 6:30 p.m. Bluegrass Music the adjoining Daniel Boone National Forest and 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. - Haunting in the Hills Pickett State Park and Forest. Deaver, Smith and Storytelling Duncan $14.95

Cumberland Heritage Month 100 Trails of the Big South Fork - as the title implies, October Saturdays at Blue Heron Mining Com- a trail guide with accurate descriptions of horse, munity – Enjoy a different cultural heritage activity hiking and bike trails in Big South Fork. Manning each week. Demonstrations and presentations and Jamieson $16.95 include storytelling, woodworking, natural dyes, Printing of this publication has been spinning, old timey toys, dulcimer music, pioneer Exploring the Big South Fork - a trail and visitors made possible by Eastern National. history, and coal mining displays. Times and sched- guide to horse, hiking and mountain biking trails ules will be announced for each Saturday in October. and the many activities at Big South Fork. Campbell and Campbell $16.95

Big South Fork Guide - 2006 - 2 Welcome from the Superintendent Welcome to Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. Last year we celebrated the completion and approval of the park’s first General Management Plan. Based on the direction provided by that document, the park can now be managed in such a way as to provide for the highest degree of natural and cultural resource protection while assuring the development of recreational opportunities which will benefit park visitors, neighbors and partners.

We now begin the exciting and sometimes challenging task of implementing the changes outlined in the General Management Plan. This spring we have begun the implementation of the designated trail system as defined in the General Management Plan. While full implementation will take some time, the final result will be an expanded, well defined and more integrated network of trails in Big South Fork.

As you enjoy the vast array of trails in Big South Fork, you will soon notice that we have begun to institute a new system of trail signing and blazing which will clearly define those types of trail use allowed on any of the designated trails within the park.

With well over 300 miles of trails to sign and blaze, however, this will be a very time consuming task for park staff to complete. The trail blazing and signing project, as well as general trail maintenance, does provide an excellent opportunity for individuals and organized groups to lend their assistance through our Volunteer in Parks program. If you are interested, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator.

The staff of Big South Fork NRRA remains committed to the goals of resource protection and quality visitor service. Together with our many park partners and neighbors we will be striving to find realistic, innovative approaches to solving the challenges we face and meeting the goals we have set.

You are our valued guest, so please let us know if you have concerns or comments. We hope that you will explore the park, enjoy the area, have fun, and return often. Sincerely,

Reed E. Detring Superintendent Make Your First Stop Here Emergency Numbers Whether you are a first time visitor or a regular user of Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, When emergency assistance is needed, dial 911 or: your first stop should be at one of the park's two visitor centers. A quick stop at the visitor center can help you get the most out of your visit. Tennessee Bandy Creek Visitor Center Park staff at Bandy Creek Visitor Center in Tennessee and the Stearns Depot Visitor Center in Kentucky can (423) 286-7275 (PARK) - 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. provide information on a wide range of recreation options and park information. In addition to providing Eastern Time. information on Big South Fork, park rangers can provide information about the surrounding area, including state parks and forests, area attractions and federal lands. Big South Fork NRRA Resource Protection Hotline - (423) 569 2404 At the visitor centers, one has access to free information, as well as maps and guide books available for ext 505. Also see page 9. purchase. Each visitor center has a sales area operated by Eastern National, a non-profit cooperating association dedicated to providing educational materials to the public and supporting the programs of the Scott County Hospital, Highway 27, Oneida, National Park Service. A percentage of each purchase is donated to the park to support local activities. The TN (423) 569-8521 visitor centers also issue backcountry camping permits, Golden Age and Golden Access Passports and the National Park Pass. Scott County Ambulance, Oneida, TN (423) 569-6000 A stop at the visitor center can make your visit more enjoyable, safer, and will maximize your time allowing you to get the most from a truly outstanding area. For more information you may call the Bandy Creek Visitor Scott County Sheriff Center at (423) 286-7275 or the Stearns Depot Visitor Center at (606) 376-5073. Huntsville, TN (423) 663-2245

Jamestown Regional Medical Center W. Central Avenue, Jamestown, TN (931) 879-8171

Fentress County Ambulance (931) 879-8147

Fentress County Sheriff Jamestown, TN (931) 879-8142

Kentucky Stearns Depot Visitor Center (606) 376-5073. During train season Stearns Depot Visitor Center in Kentucky offers park 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. information and Eastern National bookstore. NPS photo. Blue Heron Interpretive Center (606) 376-3787

McCreary County Ambulance (606) 376-5062 Bandy Creek Vistor Center (building on the right) offers visitor information, Eastern National bookstore and also sells McCreary County Sheriff ice. NPS photo. (606) 376-2322

Big South Fork Guide - 2006 - 3 Blue Heron Campgrounds Blue Heron Campground sites may be reserved from May 1 through October 31 by Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area offers three campgrounds: calling Spherix, Inc. at 1-800-365-2267 code 244. Blue Heron is closed for the Bandy Creek, Blue Heron, and Alum Ford. Bandy Creek Campground is winter season. located in the Tennessee portion of the park; Blue Heron and Alum Ford camp- grounds are located in Kentucky. Blue Heron offers 45 sites, with one site designated as accessible to mobility impaired individuals. Restroom facilities are also accessible. There is a fire ring Bandy Creek Campground and a dump station provided. Sites are $15.00 per night with water/electric Bandy Creek Campground is open year round. Sites may be reserved April 1 hookups. Although a reservation system is in place, campers are still welcome on through October 31 by calling Spherix, Inc. at 1-800-365-2267 code 244. a first-come, first-served basis for unreserved campsites. For additional informa- Although a reservation system is in place, campers are still welcome on a first- tion call (606) 376-2611. come, first-served basis for unreserved campsites. It is always a good idea, however, to call the Bandy Creek Campground at (423) 286-8368 before coming. Alum Ford The campground does fill up during holidays, special events, weekends and the Alum Ford is a primitive campground and offers six campsites. There are no whole month of October. Check-in for the campground is at the entrance station restroom facilities or water located at this area. The fee is $5.00 per night. For kiosk. additional information call (606) 376-2611. Alum Ford also has a boat ramp.

The Bandy Creek Campground pool will be open from Memorial Day through Bandy Creek Pool Labor Day in 2006. Check at the campground entrance kiosk or at the Bandy The Bandy Creek Pool will be open for the 2006 summer season from Memorial Creek Visitor Center for a schedule of the times and days the pool will be open. Day to Labor Day weekend. Check at the visitor center or campground kiosk for the pool schedule of times and days of operation. From November 1 through March 31, campsites are taken only on a first-come, Regular Rate* Discount Rate* first-served basis. During this time campers self register by filling out an envelope Individual $2.00 $1.00 from the entrance station, picking their site and then placing the fee into the Family $6.00 $3.00 provided envelope. Drop the envelope into the fee collection box at the camp- Annual Pool Pass (family) $35.00 $17.50 ground entrance station. Annual Pool Pass (individual) $20.00 $10.00 Areas B, C and D offer 98 sites which have electric/water hookups. Area A Campers pay a one-time fee and receive a pool pass that is valid for the entire offers 49 tent sites. Three sites in area D are accessible to mobility-impaired duration of their camping stay. Non-campers pay fees on a daily basis. visitors. In the group area, E-1 is also accessible. Restroom facilities are also accessible in these areas. *Holders of the Golden Age/Access Passport pay only half the fee. Passport holders must have their card with them in order to receive the discount. Bandy Creek sites in areas B, C, and D are $20.00 for water/electric hookups per night and $17.00 for tents per night in Area A. Although Area A has no electrical hook-ups, RVs, pop-ups, and horse trailers are permitted in sites A1 – Aluminum Cans Go to the Dogs A12. Sites A13 – A49 are restricted for tents only. Holders of Golden Age and Best Friends Sanctuary is the only humane society in Fentress County and the Golden Access Passports are entitled to a 50% discount for campsites. surrounding counties. They do not have a shelter building but concentrate mostly on spaying and neutering cats and dogs for low-income families in Bandy Creek Group Area E-1 and E-2 are for large groups of 25 or more. E-1 Fentress County. Grants that they have received help with this project but they offers 19 individual sites and E-2 offers 16 individual sites. These sites do not also sponsor several fundraisers each year. In addition to these fundraisers, Best have electric/water hookups. The group areas offer a covered pavilion with Friends have been collecting and selling aluminum cans. This money pays to electric/water and cooking area. A fire ring for campfires is available. Separate spay and neuter animals. The organization helps when they can and when bathhouses for each area offer hot showers. The cost is $75.00 minimum needed to rescue and place animals. Best Friends depend solely on contributions charge per night for up to 25 persons, plus $3.00 for each additional person. from individuals to accomplish the work they do. By depositing your aluminum Reservations can be made for the group camp April 1 through November 15 by cans in the green barrels provided within the park, you are helping the people calling 1-800-365-2267, code 244. and the animals of Fentress County. Thank you for your support!

Blue Heron Campground

Bandy Creek Campground

Big South Fork Guide - 2006 - 4 General Information Country Store (423) 569-5010 Lost and Found Rugby Commissary (423) 628-5166 Lost items may be reported to rangers at the Bandy Visitor Centers R & M Brooks and Son (423) 628-2533 Creek or Stearns Depot Visitor Center or at Blue Tennessee - Bandy Creek Visitor Center Buckhorn (423) 569-9452 Heron Mining Community. A file will be made (423) 286 -7275 (PARK). Stop N Go Market Elgin (423) 627-4100 describing the item and where it was lost. Items that Kentucky - Stearns Depot Visitor Center Big John's #2 (Exxon Gas) (423) 569-6122 have been found should be turned in at the Bandy (606) 376-5073. Express Market & Deli (931) 879-8132 Creek or Stearns Depot Visitor Center or at Blue Kentucky - Blue Heron (606) 376-3787. Allardt Express Market (931) 879-8051 Heron. Cherokee Trail (931) 879-0895 Accessibility Uncle Dale's Trading Post (423)569-1544 Concessionaires Bandy Creek Visitor Center Kentucky Venders Bandy Creek Stables - (423) 286-7433 The visitor center and its restrooms are accessible. Big South Fork Scenic Railway - (800) GO-ALONG Fastway BP (606)376-2364 One or more rangers are trained, to some degree, in Charit Creek Lodge - (865) 429-5704 Big M's Discount (606) 376-8500 sign language. Large print brochures are available on Eastern National - (423) 286-7275 Sheltowee Trace Outfitters (606) 526-7238 request. Station Camp Equestrian Area - (423) 569-3321 One Stop Shell (606) 376-9200 Bear Creek Equestrian Area- (423) 569-3321 Roger New Grocery (606) 376-2579 Stearns Depot Visitor Center The visitor center and restrooms are accessible. Hunting Seasons River Information Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area Campgrounds The Big South Fork of the Cumberland River is a free does allow hunting during regular state seasons. flowing river. Sections of the river are calm enough Bandy Creek and Blue Heron Campgrounds have Check with the visitor centers or at Blue Heron for for beginners while other parts are more challenging designated mobility impaired accessible sites for maps of the safety (no hunting) zones and regula- and have exciting whitewater. Peak times for river use families and groups. Restroom facilities are also tions. are in the spring and sometimes late fall or winter. accessible. Water and electrical hook-ups are also There is only one commercial company which available at both campgrounds. Alum Ford in Kentucky Big Game - Deer provides equipment and trips for canoeing and Kentucky is accessible, but restrooms are primitive and rafting the river. If you are planning on embarking Deer Archery - Zone 1-4: Third Saturday in Septem- there are no water hook-ups. on the river with your own equipment and expertise, ber through third Monday in January. please check in at the Bandy Creek Visitor Center to Muzzleloader - Zone 1-4: Two consecutive days Overlooks and River Access file a trip plan, register for overnight river trips, and beginning the the fourth Saturday in October and East Rim and Honey Creek Overlooks in Tennessee obtain information that will help you have a safe trip. seven days beginning second Saturday in December. and the Devils Jump Overlook in Kentucky are Modern Gun Deer - Zones 1-2: 16 consecutive days, accessible to individuals with mobility impairments. beginning the second Saturday in November. Zones Leatherwood Ford River Access offers accessible Permitted Outfitters 3-4: 10 consecutive days, beginning the second trails and restrooms. Sheltowee Trace Outfitters Saturday in November. P.O. Box 1060 Youth Hunt - Zones 1-4: Two consecutive days Whitley City, Kentucky 42653 beginning the third Saturday in October. Blue Heron/Mine 18 Boar - Wild hogs may be taken during open deer The scenic train ride into Blue Heron is fully acces- 1-800-541- RAFT (606) 376-5567 season and during the extended hog season. sible. Blue Heron offers accessible restrooms and is For exact dates, contact Kentucky Department of partially accessible to individuals with mobility Southeast Pack Trips, Inc. Fish and Wildlife Resources, 1 Game Farm Road, impairments (some steep grades and steps exist). Frankfort, Kentucky 40601 (502)564-4336. Website: 299 Dewey Burke Road www.fw.ky.gov. Jamestown, Tennessee 38556 Backcountry Camping (931) 879-2260 Backcountry camping is allowed in Big South Fork Tennessee Big Game Hunting Seasons National River and Recreation Area. There are no Permanent Opening Dates designated campsites, but there are rules that tell you Safety Facts Quail and Rabbit - Second Saturday in where you can and cannot camp. Check at the To help you enjoy your trip to Big South Fork November. Bandy Creek or Stearns Depot Visitor Center or at National River and Recreation Area, be aware of some Squirrel - Fourth Saturday in August. Blue Heron for more information. Backcountry safety precautions: Deer/Archery - Last Saturday in September. permits are required to camp in the backcountry (1) There are poisonous snakes (copperheads and Deer/Gun - Saturday before Thanksgiving. overnight. timber rattlesnakes), ticks, chiggers, and poison ivy Deer/Juvenile only - First Saturday and Sunday in found in this area. Be cautious as you hike the trails or November. Permit fees are as follows: use the backcountry. Always use a flashlight when Boar - Wild hogs may be taken during open deer 1 to 6 people $5.00 walking at night to avoid stepping on any snake. season and during the extended hog season. 7 - 12 persons $10.00 (2) Plan to leave information about your trip with For exact dates please contact Tennessee Wildlife 13 - 18 persons $15.00 someone at home. Resources Agency, Region III, 216 East Penfield, 19 - 24 persons $20.00 (3) Backcountry camping permits are required. These Crossville, Tennessee 38555, (931) 484-9571 or 1-800- 25 - 30 persons $25.00 provide information to park rangers in case of 262-6704 in Tennessee. Website: www.tnwildlife.org. emergencies. File a trip report with rangers at the Check Kentucky and Tennessee hunting guides for A yearly permit is available for $50.00. In addition to Bandy Creek Visitor Center, Stearns Depot Visitor Small Game Seasons. the visitor centers, please see the following list for Center or at any of the venders mentioned in the list authorized backcountry permit venders. Please above. contact (423) 286-8368 for more information. (4) Store all food, food containers and coolers out of Parks on the Internet Permits are checked by rangers and are necessary reach from wildlife. A copy of the food storage Most National Park areas have a web page, and when emergencies arise should a ranger need to regulations can be obtained from the visitor centers or camping reservations for many parks may be done on contact you. the campground kiosks. line as well. To find more information about camping (5) Are you concerned about driving up and down and park facilities, special events and programs that each National Park Service area has to offer, use Tennessee Venders the steep hills? Your vehicle will perform more efficiently if you use a lower gear while going down www.nps.gov. Big South Fork National River and Bandy Creek Stables (423) 286-7433 steep grades. Consequently, you won’t need to use Recreation Area page may be directly accessed Big John's (Marathon Gas) (423) 569-9004 the brakes as often and they are less likely to overheat through www.nps.gov/biso. Big South Fork Motor Lodge (931) 879-4230 and burn. Here’s to fresher air for everybody! Big South Fork Regional V. C. (423) 663-4556 Big South Fork Guide - 2006 - 5 Fourteenth Annual Spring Chores Turned Into Traditional Haunting in the“Hills” Arts Spring Planting Day Celebration Storytelling Festival

September 23, 2006 Big South Fork NRRA - Bandy Creek Field

10:00 am Folk Art Workshops and Demonstrations 1:00 pm Family Oriented Storytelling 3:00 pm Special Local Tellers 5:00 pm Dulcimer Concert 6:30 pm Blue Grass Music 8:00 pm Ghost Stories guaranteed to thrill and chill listeners of all ages. Come join us for a full day of fun and activities. By Sue H. Duncan, Park Ranger Interpretation Free and open to the public. The time of the year is spring. It is a time for new beginnings and growth. For further information contact Big South Fork Visitor Center at (423) 286-7275 Mountain families begin their planning for crops, vegetable gardens and live- stock production. This production will sustain a family through the rest of the If You See A Myriad Of Stars, It’s year. Nighttime In The Big South Fork The early families who settled the Big South Fork area depended on their ability to successfully raise animals, crops, and gardens to feed themselves. Most of the By Paul Lewis farming that occurred here was truly subsistence farming. The family often One of the greatest pleasures of the Big South Fork is the dark of night. Dark consumed the entire production of the garden. There was continued use of skies are something we are experiencing less and less of in our cities and immedi- wild plant and animal foods, but the “kitchen garden” was vital to a sustainable ate surrounding areas where we live and work. The places that we can escape to food supply. This tradition continues with many families even today. It is not to enjoy the beautiful vistas of the Milky Way are rapidly becoming fewer and uncommon for local residents to have large gardens that provide a substantial farther between. amount of food.

Our astronomy programs in the park are meant to bring you some understand- Along with planning for their gardens and crops, families had a number of ing of the night sky and space science as well as telescope views of some of the annual spring “chores” that were performed --spring cleaning and airing out of many wonders to be found in those skies. We will have Saturn and Jupiter to the house and bed linens, repairing paling fences, livestock care and animal observe in May. Saturn will be much lower in the west in our June skies but husbandry, and mending and making clothing for the spring and summer Jupiter will dominate the night skies for the remainder of the summer. seasons. Various crafts and forgotten arts of today were skills of yesterday -- skills needed for survival in the area we now call the Big South Fork, Our first astronomy program will be on May 20. Weather permitting we will Cumberland Mountains or Appalachia. observe the Sun at 3:30 P.M. and have our evening program and telescope observations beginning at 9:00 P.M. Join us again on July 29 for an evening In celebration of these skills and traditions of spring, Big South Fork National program followed by telescope observing. We will have a third day of astronomy River and Recreation Area will be hosting its Fifth Annual Spring Planting Day in October - the date to be announced. on Saturday, April 29, 2006. Craftspersons will be demonstrating forgotten arts such as blacksmithing, basket making, hand spinning, weaving, woodcarving, Some of our favorite objects through telescopes are the great globular cluster of chair caning, soap making, garden herb lore and use, and paling fence making. stars M13 in Hercules, the beautiful Ring Nebula, a planetary nebula in Lyra, the Displays of women’s life, antique farm tools, farm animals and old-timey toys Double Cluster in Perseus and several stellar nurseries where stars and planets will delight young and old alike. Toe-tapping tunes of mountain dulcimer are forming in huge clouds of dust and gas thousands of light years distant. music will be performed by the Knoxville Area Dulcimer Club throughout the Some objects just look better in binoculars so be sure to bring yours along and day. Plowing and planting with mules and horses will be taking place at the Lora we will help you locate some of those fine objects that are just too big for tele- Blevins field. Come join in our celebration of spring and traditional mountain scopes. ways.

The event will take place from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Check with the Bandy Cultural Heritage Days Creek Visitor Center for the location and more information about this event. Enjoy October Saturdays at the Blue Heron Coal Mining Community in celebration of the area's cultural heritage. Each Saturday a different activity or event will be presented. Native American stories and music, spinning and natural dyes, old timey toys, blackpowder rifle firing, woodworking, dulcimer concerts and coal mining programs are just a few of the events presented by park staff and volunteers. All events are free to the public and everyone is invited to attend. Times and dates of these events will be announced prior to each Saturday in October, or call: (606) 376-5073, or (606) 376-3787.

Big South Fork Guide - 2006 - 6 New Trail Blazing and Signing System for Big South Fork

In an effort to make the trail system more user friendly for the wide variety of users at Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, the park is imple- Horse trails are designated for horseback riding. menting a new system of trailhead and trail markings. This new system will Hiking and mountain bike riding are allowed on consist of both graphic symbols and color coded blazes to indicate the types of most horseback trails; however, some trails are use authorized for a particular trail. The absence of a symbol will mean that a blazed to be free of all other uses but foot travel. particular use is not permitted on that trail.

Symbols of all uses allowed on that particular trail will be mounted on wooden posts and placed at the beginning of trails and at all trail junctions. The primary trail use symbol will be displayed on the top of the sign with other trail uses displayed underneath. The symbols will represent a horse, hiker, mountain biker, multiple-use trail, and a wagon wheel for the trails accessible to horse drawn wagons.

In addition to the graphic symbol, the trail use will also be reinforced with a Hiking trails are designated for foot traffic only. color code for the primary use authorized for that particular trail. Colors selected for the various uses are red for horse and wagon trails, green for foot trails, blue for biking trails and orange for multiple-use trails. The existing symbols for the John Muir Trail and Sheltowee Trace trails will continue to be used. Additionally, the existing signs indicating trail names and mileages will also continue to be used.

Where different uses overlap on the same trail they may receive both colored blazes for those user groups. An Mountain bike trails are designated as open for use example of this would be the section of the Oscar Blevins by mountain bikes and may also be used by hikers. Farm Loop (a hiking trail) and the Collier Ridge Bike Loop. These two trails share two common segments. In that instance the portion common to both uses will receive both blazes.

The use of this new system should make it easier for all Multiple-use trails are designated as open to all park users to be sure they are on a trail that is designed and trail uses including motorized vehicles. In open for their particular use. addition, licensed hunters may use ATVs on these trails while actively engaged in the legal hunting The trailhead signing and trail blazing is being funded by of either deer or wild boar. monies generated through the Recreational Fee Demon- stration Program. This program which has now been made permanent by the Federal Lands Recreation En- hancement Act of 2004, collects user fees for specific recreational activities such as backcountry camping permits, camping in the park's developed campgrounds, use of the Bandy Creek swimming pool, and the hunting Wagon routes are designated for use by horseback of wild hogs. The monies are then made available to riders, mountain bike riders and hikers, and are improve visitor related facilities within Big South Fork also maintained with sufficient width and clear- NRRA. ance to allow their use by horse or mule drawn vehicles. As with any new system it will take time to fully implement and there will be some learning and adjustment on the part of trail users. Your patience, attention and assistance will be required.

The Sheltowee Trace National Recreational Trail is a designated hiking trail with sections in Big South Fork NRRA, Pickett State Forest and Daniel Boone National Forest.

In this example, horseback riding is designated as the primary trail use. Mountain bike riding and hiking would also be designated uses allowed on this trail. The notifica- The John Muir Trail is designated as a hiking trail tion that the trail is closed to motorized vehicle will occur with trail sections both in Big South Fork NRRA at points where trails enter from outside the park or where and Pickett State Park. trails enter the "gorge" area.

Big South Fork Guide - 2006 - 7 Blue Tails continues to wriggle. While the predator is distracted, the lizard gets away. It By Sherry Fritschi, Park Ranger Interpretaion will slowly grow a new tail that is not as strong or colorful as the original. “Quick, catch him!” I said, as the little lizard zipped under a chair and out of reach. Once again our clumsy efforts to capture the five-lined skink basking on Skinks, like other reptiles, are most active on warm sunny days when they can the living room carpet were in vain. It’s just as well. A skink can give a harmless crawl out on rocks or logs and absorb heat. After recharging their “engines” they but painful bite. I’ve not seen him for awhile. Maybe he’s taken up residence in dash up tree trunks or tunnel through leaf litter and under logs in search of food one of my large house plants or slipped under a door and found his way back that’s not as fast as they are. Spiders, roaches, crickets, grasshoppers, beetle larvae, to the great outdoors. earthworms, crustaceans, lizards and small mice are on the menu. Ferocious for their size, broad-headed skinks have been known to shake pupae out of paper Assuming you have spent any time in Big South Fork hiking or just walking wasp nests without getting stung by the adults. Nature shields lizards from insect from a parking lot to a building, you’ve likely encountered a small striped lizard stingers with an armor of scaly skin. with a bright blue tail scurrying through the leaves, across a log or porch. If this juvenile reptile would just stay still, you’d see a sleek black lizard with five Break-away tails and scales won’t protect skinks from all predators. Snakes, birds yellowish stripes and a sky blue tail. of prey, raccoons, skunks, opossums and foxes eat these lizards. Unfortunately, if a pet cat eats the blue tail of a skink, within two hours it can react to toxins Three similar species of skinks live in the southeastern United States. The five- produced by the lizard. Signs of toxicity are excessive salivating, circling, lined skink and the southeastern five-lined skink have both been observed and trembling, and paralysis. If you suspect that your cat has eaten a skink, promptly documented at Big South Fork. The broad-headed skink is probably living in take it to a veterinarian for medical attention. the park but has not been studied here by biologists. If you could set up a little showroom to display these fast sporty lizards, you’d notice subtle differences in Just remember, if you want to observe a zippy lizard, think like a skink. Find a appearance. Both models of adult five-lined skinks are 5 to 8 ½ inches long, warm boulder, look around to make sure a snake isn’t resting where you want to black or brown in body color. When young, the southeastern five-lined skink be, and then sit down. Get your camera ready and expect to see a blue tail at any has five light pinstripes whereas the five-lined skink’s stripes are wider. Both time. Even if you don’t see one, it was fun trying and who knows what other species’ stripes and blue tail color fade with maturity, but heads of breeding natural wonders might catch your attention. males turn red-orange to attract mates. In case you’re into details, it’s worth noting that the five-lined skink and broad-headed skink both have a wide lengthwise row of scales under the tail, but this wide row is not present on the southeastern five-lined. The adult male broad-headed skink is brown with a wide red-orange head. It's body is nearly 13 inches long. As a juvenile, it displays five wide light stripes and bright blue tail color that fade with maturity.

Spring is mating season for skinks. The female lays eggs in rotten logs, sawdust piles or under objects. She tends and guards the eggs until they hatch. The brilliant blue tail of a youngster helps protect it from predators by drawing attention away from vital body parts. When grabbed, the tail breaks off and

Nearly all the wildfires in Big South Fork are human caused, either set intentionally or because of carelessness. Park staff would like to remind you to never leave your campfire unattended and completely extinguish your fire before you leave your campsite. Only use designated campfire rings for fires. Completely extinguish cigarettes and matches and place them in the proper receptacles. During extremely dry weather, consider using a backpacking camp stove instead of an open fire.

Wildfires aren’t the only fires a visitor may see this spring. Starting March 15, Big South Fork will be conducting prescribed burns at three locations in Kentucky and two locations in Tennessee. Prescribed burning refers to an intentionally lit fire performed by trained personnel under carefully outlined weather and Big South Fork Fire Season vegetation conditions of the burn area. Prescribed burns are a cost effective way to meet resource objectives and goals within the park. Some of the goals fire By Andi Stebleton, Seasonal Forestry Technician managers hope to achieve this spring are to reduce fuel loads that prevent Another fire season has arrived at Big South Fork National River and Recreation wildland fire spread and intensity within and around the park, encourage native Area. ‘Fire season’ is a term used often in the media, in our national parks and species, restore fire as a natural ecological process, improve habitat for a variety of national and state forest lands. What does the term ‘fire season’ mean, when is it, wildlife, and provide the public an opportunity to learn about the positive effects and how does it affect a visitor this year to Big South Fork? of fire. The burns will vary in size from 40-600 acres, and 20-25 firefighters and two to three engines will staff each burn. During a prescribed burn, some roads A fire season refers to the time in the spring and in the fall when environmental and all trails in the burn area temporarily close for visitor safety. Please obey all conditions such as warm weather, sunshine, and wind, plus dead, dried fuels closure signs. Once the burn is complete and it is safe, these roads and trails make an area receptive to fire. Big South Fork’s spring fire season starts around reopen. Contact the park’s visitor center at 423-286-7275 for the latest information February 15 and continues until green-up when new plant growth emerges, on the various burn dates and associated closures. usually by May 15. The fall season coincides with deciduous leaf fall that starts around October 15 and ends typically by December 15. Although the spring Big South Fork’s fire season is off to an early start. As of March 12, 2006, we have season is normally the more severe season of the two, the potential for wildfires already had four small wildfires in the park. With the unseasonably warm, dry is equally great during the fall, mainly because the hunting season increases spring, we are expecting to have an active season and successful prescribed burns. visitation and activity in the woods. Even though we have designated fire If you notice a burnt area on your trip through the park, take a moment to look at seasons when fire danger is the highest, abnormally dry periods and high the new life that springs up through the ashes. Come back a year later to that temperatures can increase the fire danger any time of the year. Be aware of the same spot and see how the fire has changed the area. Fire can be devastating but weather and any restrictions or bans on burning within the park and the local when used correctly it can also be a wonderful tool to help manage the resources area, and follow them. within the park. Have a safe and enjoyable fire season.

Big South Fork Guide - 2006 - 8 General Management Plan Coal Creek OHV Area Regarding ATV Use The Coal Creek OHV Area is 72,000 acres of off road fun, located in Oliver By Steven Seven, Chief of Interpretation Springs, Tennessee. The area’s trails are open to everyone and just about any type In May of 2005, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area (NRRA) of vehicle. ATVs, motorcycles, Jeeps, buggies and trucks all enjoy some of the completed its General Management Plan. The plan, now in place, will serve to best off-roading in the country each weekend. guide the park in it’s management of existing facilities and the development of new recreational opportunities. The property is privately owned by The Coal Creek Company and a land use permit is required to access the area. For additional information, please visit The only trails open to ATV use in Big South Fork are those trails that are http://www.coalcreekohv.com/. designated as multiple-use trails. In compliance with the legislated limitations on motorized transportation within the “gorge area” of Big South Fork, these multiple-use trails are all located outside the gorge on the plateau portion of the Royal Blue Wildlife Management Area Big South Fork. Licensed hunters while they are actively engaged in the legal hunting of either deer or wild boar may use ATVs on these multiple-use trails. Royal Blue WMA offers over 130,000 acres and 430 miles of TWRA mountain For the recreational ATV rider there are no designated ATV trails within Big trails varying in degrees of difficulty. The area’s trails range from leisurely treks South Fork at this time. that families can enjoy together, to challenging obstacles and creeks for the risk- taking rider. The General Management Plan does allow for the development of an ATV trail(s) in the Darrow Ridge area of the park in the future. This trail, also located For further information on Royal Blue trails and information on the required outside the defined “gorge area” of the park, will be laid out and developed with permits, please contact Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency Region 4 by writing input from a variety of interest groups including local/regional ATV organiza- TWRA Region 4 Office, 3030 Wildlife Way, Morristown, TN 37814, or calling 1- tions. 800-332-0900.

When completed, the National Park Service will monitor these ATV trail(s) to assess any impacts that might result from this activity upon the natural, cultural Pickett State Forest and recreational resources of the Big South Fork. The results of this monitoring will then allow the park management to make a decision based on well defined Pickett State Forest protects almost 19,000 acres of land in northern Tennessee. and defendable facts as to whether an ATV trail system is possible within Big Within the State Forest, some 50 miles of ATV trails exist and are open to the South Fork. public. No permit is required to ride these trails.

This process of public input and follow-up monitoring will allow Big South For further information on Pickett State Forest trails, please contact their office at Fork NRRA to fulfill the legal requirements as outlined in Executive Orders 11644 (931) 879-5170. and 11989.

In addition, Executive Order 11644 requires areas and trails to be located to: Burnt Mill Bridge

• minimize damage to soil, watershed, vegetation, or other resources on As previous visitors to Big South Fork know, the old Burnt Mill Bridge across public lands. the Clear Fork River has been closed since 2002. The bridge, which was built in • minimize harassment of wildlife or significant disruption of wildlife the early 1930’s, had become unsafe for vehicle traffic. Burnt Mill Bridge and habitats. Burnt Mill Ford Road are under the jurisdiction of the Scott County Highway • minimize conflicts between off-road users and other existing or pro- Department. Scott County and the Tennessee Department of Transportation, posed recreational uses of the same or neighboring public lands. with cooperation from the National Park Service, undertook the replacement of • Trails shall be located in areas of the National Park System only if the the old bridge with a new one. Construction of the new bridge is expected to be agency head determines that off-road vehicle use in such locations will completed sometime during 2006, perhaps as early as this fall. In conjunction not adversely affect their natural, aesthetic, or scenic values. with the bridge project, improvements will be made to the Burnt Mill Trailhead and River Access. In order to help preserve the historic scene, the old bridge will Executive Order 11989 added Section (9) to Executive Order 11644 providing for be left in place but only for foot traffic. The completion of the new bridge will “Special Protection of the Public Lands.” Under this section whenever it is reopen an important link for local residents and visitors to Big South Fork. determined that the use of off-road vehicle will cause or is causing considerable adverse effects on the soil, vegetation, wildlife, wildlife habitat or cultural or historic resources of particular areas or trails of the public lands, the agency shall immediately close such areas or trails to the type of off-road vehicle causing such effects.

Title 36 CFR Section 4.10 (b) also requires the Big South Fork NRRA to draft a special regulation authorizing the use of ATVs on trails within the park.

Until such time as this trail is developed, ATV riders must find riding alternatives outside the boundaries of Big South Fork NRRA. The following is a list of public and private lands near the Big South Fork NRRA which are open to the general public for the riding of ATVs.

Brimstone Recreation

Brimstone Recreation manages and promotes the recreational use of over 45,000 acres nestled in the remote wilds of Northeast Tennessee and located in the heart of Appalachia. The area has over 300 miles of OHV trails with numerous overlooks and culture exploration points of interest.

A land use permit is required to access the area. For additional information, please visit http://www.brimstonerecreation.com, call 1-423-663-4868 or email [email protected]. Big South Fork Guide - 2006 - 9 Volunteers in Parks

By Sue H. Duncan, Park Ranger Interpretation and Volunteer Coordinator Throughout the National Park Service there are a number of people who are devoted to making your park visit enjoyable and safe. Permanent and temporary employees work in various capacities such as: Administration, Resource Management, Visitor Protection, Maintenance , and Visitor Services and Education. You may see any of these employees on your visit to the park in the visitor centers, campgrounds, and backcountry or along the trails. But what about the other people who volunteer their time and skills to make the park a better place for you too?

Volunteers-In-Parks are people of all ages who spend anywhere from a few hours per week to several months working for the park. There are people who serve as campground hosts, evening program presenters, special events demonstrators, visitor center information providers, maintenance and trail workers, resource management assistants, search and rescue team members and much more. Volunteers are relied on heavily to fill in gaps where regular employees cannot. They often have the time to do tasks that are in many instances left unattended or not completed by our regular staff. Volunteers may have talents and skills that are utilized during special events. They provide interpretive programs and demonstrations that are interesting to visitors. A large number of volunteers work with trail maintenance crews clearing trees and brush from paths improving conditions for visitor use. There are even a number of volunteer groups that Resource Protection Hotline Available have adopted trails within the park and are responsible for working on that same trail throughout the year. In order to increase the number of backcountry “eyes and ears” helping protect the park's valuable and often irreplaceable resources, a Resource Protection If you have a special interest or skill that you want to share and would like to Hotline has recently been established. participate in the Volunteer-In-Parks program, please write or e-mail: Sue H. Duncan, Volunteer Coordinator, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Any park visitor or neighbor who witnesses what they believe to be an illegal Area, 4564 Leatherwood Road, Oneida, Tennessee 37841, e-mail: activity such as digging arrowheads, poaching wildlife or harvesting plants, is [email protected] or call for more information (423) 286-7275. We will be encouraged to call the Resource Protection Hotline at (423) 569 2404 ext happy to send you an application and give you the opportunity to join our team 505. All information will be treated confidentially. No name or phone number of Volunteers-In-Parks. Check out our special events made possible because of will be required; however, persons wishing to leave contact information may do our volunteers on page 6. so.

Protecting our Archeological Sites By Tom Des Jean, Park Acheologist Public interest in the prehistoric inhabitants of the Upper Cumberland Plateau has been evident for over 50 years. This interest is reflected in the numerous collections of Indian relics that many people in the area possess. But because of the haphazard way that these artifacts are being collected, a great deal of other types of information about these Native Americans people is being lost. The “mission” of the National Park Service is to preserve the archeological sites on our United States public lands so that, in time, controlled excavations and scientific analysis can be done to recover the most complete and accurate story possible. Here at Big South Fork the numerous prehistorically occupied rockshelter sites represent a resource that can fill in a lot of the 12,000 year prehistory of Native American occupation of the Upper South.

Unfortunately, there are collectors who come onto public lands and continue to destroy archeological sites in a search for “arrowheads”. To protect those sites that have not been destroyed, the National Park Service, together with University of Tennessee, is implementing a Condition Assessment program to document and monitor the hundreds of prehistoric archeological sites within the National Area boundary. All of the known sites are being investigated for any impacts, whether human, animal, or erosion. The sites and damages are photographed and sketched and then systematically checked again to determine if damages are occurring. If new damages are noticed, then National Park Service Rangers and Managers take measures to preserve and protect those sites.

The National Park Service Condition Assessment Project that started in 2005 will be an ongoing effort. Through this program, archeological sites will be preserved that will allow careful scientific excavation to reveal the story of this country’s prehistoric Native American inhabitants. Destruction of Big South Fork prehistoric past through the looting of rockshelters. Big South Fork Guide - 2006 - 10 Hey Kids, Become a Junior Ranger!

In order to become a Junior Ranger, it is important for you to learn about the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. Then you can help park rangers teach others how to be safe, enjoy the park, and protect it from harm! There are several activities listed below that you can do alone or with your friends, but it takes time to learn about the park. These activities may take you a few hours or days to complete. After you complete the activities, go to the Bandy Creek or Stearns Depot Visitor Center where a park ranger will ask you some questions before you are awarded your Junior Ranger Badge.

Junior Ranger Activities Complete 6 of the activities below. Discover Historic Rugby 1. Hike a trail along the Big South Fork River. Name the trail. Historic Rugby is a non-profit museum and historic site founded in 1966 2. Pick up litter in the park. to carry out the restoration, preservation, and interpretation of one of the 3. Visit the Stearns Depot Visitor Center and Blue Heron. Get a cancellation stamp south’s most intriguing historic places. Guided interpretive tours of the public from the area. buildings are conducted daily except on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, 4. Visit three rock shelters in the area and list them. Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. 5. List three groups of historic people who lived here before it was a park. 6. Take a ride by horseback or mountain bike into the backcountry. Name the trail. Many special events, craft and outdoor workshops and other educational 7. Identify four kinds of trees or wildflowers that grow along the river. programs are presented year-round. The Rugby colony was established in 1880 8. Name two homeplaces that still remain within the park. by famous British author and social reformer Thomas Hughes as a social and 9. Name four animals that live here. agricultural utopia. Twenty historic buildings remain today. Rugby is again 10. Attend a ranger led program. growing as new “colonists” build historically compatible homes based on the original town plan. The entire Rugby village was named to the National From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, park rangers Register of Historic Places in 1972. Historic Rugby is directly adjacent to provide fun and educational programs or hikes. Look at the bulletin boards in Big South Fork, 16 miles from Jamestown, 24 miles from Oneida. Unique the campground or ask at the visitor center for the name of program, time and lodging in historic buildings and food service at the Harrow Road Café is location. There are programs at both Bandy Creek and Blue Heron. available year round.

Scavenger Hunt Call Historic Rugby toll-free at 1-888-214-3400 or (423) 628-2441 for reservations and lodging. Email: [email protected]. Website: www.historicrugby.org See how many of the following things your group can locate. Remember, never take or disturb any plant, animal, land, geological formation, historic site or artifact. You might want to keep a record by taking pictures or just put a check Sgt. Alvin C. York State Historic Park mark by the things you see. You may need to make several visits to the park to find everything on the list. Good Luck! The Sgt. Alvin C. York State Historic Park, located in Pall Mall, Tennessee, is dedicated to Sgt. York for his famous World War I actions. Sgt. York led his · Three different kinds of leaves on a single sassafras tree squad to capture 132 German soldiers and take 25 casualties in an attack in the · Archeological artifacts displayed in a glass case Argon Forest against the German Army. His efforts earned him more than 40 · Lump of coal awards including the Congressional Medal of Honor and the French equivalent, · Old log cabin (Which farm?) the Croix de Guerre. · Live wild animal (Kind?) · Fresh animal track At the park you can visit the family home and farm, the post office/general store · Scat or an owl pellet that he built and operated for several years, his burial site, and the York Gristmill · Sandstone bluff (Color?) which was built in the early 1880’s. · Small creek · Wildflower (Name?) The park also offers picnicking with two picnic shelters, which hold up to 50 · Protected river overlook (Name?) people and are available for rent by reservation. There are also 25 picnic tables · Chewed beaver stick that are available on a first-come first-serve basis. · Park Ranger (Name?) · Evergreen tree (What kind?) Fishing is also available at the park in Wolf River. A valid Tennessee fishing · Umbrella magnolia leaf license with a trout stamp is required to fish at the park. During the summer · Rock shelter months, TWRA releases trout into Wolf River. · Arch (Name?) · Coal tipple Also located at the park is a hiking trail. The trail leads across the York farm, · Picnic table crosses Wolf River via suspension bridge and leads to Sgt. York’s gravesite. This · Canoe or kayak trail is six-tenths of a mile one way and ranges from easy to moderate. The · Horse trailhead is located behind the house. · Insect (Name?) · Turkey vulture During the year there are several planned programs. In the summer months a · Black bear display seasonal interpretive ranger is available for programming, and during the rest of · Bridge (Name?) the year a ranger is available to do scheduled programs. There are also annual events/programs which include the following: · Sgt. Alvin C. York Shooting Match- March 2007. Contact the park for more information. Have A Wonderful Time at the Big South Fork. Be Safe and · Hwy. 127 Yard Sale - First weekend in August Come Back Soon! · Christmas at the York Store and Home- December. Contact the park for more information

Big South Fork Guide - 2006 - 11 Discover Pickett State Park The Glow Worms of Hazard Cave

Throughout the Big South Fork area there are numerous sights to see. Pickett State Park is our next door neighbor and is located about 20 minutes away from the Bandy Creek Visitor Center. Pickett State Park offers a wealth of scenic treasures for the day hiker, casual stroller, serious backpacker and overnight camper. Cabins are even available to rent throughout the year.

A fascinating aspect of this natural area is a glowworm that inhabits Hazard Cave and nearby overhanging, sandstone rock bluffs. Hazard cave is not considered to be a true cave. True caves are areas where no light can penetrate. Geologists often call these “caves” rock shelters instead. Within these rock shelters there exists a larvae of the fungus gnat (Diptera mycetohilidae). This larvae has been found in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina, Pickett State Park and at a few locations within the Big South Fork as well as a cave named Luminous Cave in Claiborne County, Tennessee. Until recent times, there was only one other place to find these creatures, which was New Zealand.

The “glowworms” may be viewed at night in the furthest reaches of Hazard Cave only when you turn off your flashlight and sit patiently while your eyes become adjusted to the darkness. Slowly you will begin to see their dim, bluish-green Cumberland Falls State Park glow as if a magical city were appearing before your eyes. Park staff will lead you to see these minute creatures during evening programs The “ Niagara of the South” is often used to describe Cumberland Falls State held during the summer months. Check with the Pickett State Park offices for Resort Park. Imagine the breathtaking beauty of a waterfall plunging 60 ft into times and dates of these and other naturalist programs by calling (931) 879-5821. a boulder-strewn gorge. The mist rising from the base of the falls creates the magic of a moonbow, a phenomena only visible at a few places in the world. A moonbow is a rainbow at night created by moonlight refracted from a water droplet. On a clear night a moonbow can be seen about two nights before a Friends of the Big South Fork full moon until about two days after. Reaching New Heights in 2006 2005 was an exciting year for the Friends of the Big South Fork. We were able to The park is a nature lovers retreat with about 20 miles of hiking trails to explore. accomplish our committed programs through the efforts of our Director, Barbara Eagle Falls Trail is a hikers favorite, which treks you through the Cumberland Shoemaker. It also became a challenging year with the departure of Barbara when Falls Nature Preserve. At the end of your journey you will be renewed by the she left the Friends to return to her love of teaching. sight of Eagle Falls. A stop by the Cumberland Falls Visitor Center will enlighten the visitor about the geology, history, trail system and recreation We find the Friends starting 2006 with a new director, James Taylor. James has opportunities of the park. been involved with the Friends for the past several years, serving in many capacities. This year will be very busy with the many projects that are currently Guests can stay in the historic Dupont Lodge built of native sandstone and being developed like the Big South Fork Cookbook, Calendar, and the Adventure hemlock beams. Fifty- two rooms offer beautiful views and full amenities. Race (May 2007) to name just a few. The Carta Vista project (virtual fly through of The lodge dining room has beautiful views of the Cumberland River Gorge. the park) continues to move forward, along with the planned Wings over the Big The dining room serves Kentucky cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. South Fork Fly-in scheduled for September. The Friends are also working to For the vacationer who prefers all the comforts of home, choose one of our 24 secure funding to support the Haunting in the Hills Storytelling Festival and get cottages. The one and two bedroom cottages feature stone fireplaces and the storytellers back into the area classrooms this year. private views into the woodlands. Tableware, cooking utensils and linens are June 2006 is the deadline for our Big South Fork license plate campaign. The provided. For the traveler who prefers to sleep in a tent or RV, enjoy the Friends must have a total of 1,000 plates sold before the state will put the plate outdoors in our 50 site campground featuring electric and water hookups. into production. This is an opportunity for you to support the Friends, so that Kentucky handmade crafts can be purchased at the park gift shop located near the Friends can assist the Big South Fork. Please support the Friends by visiting the falls. our website at www.friendsofbigsouthfork.org and reserving your license plate today. Outdoor recreation opportunities abound, such as canoeing and whitewater rafting with Sheltowee Trace Outfitters (1-800-541-RAFT). Cool off on a hot The Friends also have several other projects currently in the planning stages summer day with a dip in our Olympic-size pool. Guided horseback trail which will be announced at a later date. Visit the Friends website at rides are available daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day. If fishing is www.friendsofbigsouthfork.org for a listing of all upcoming activities and dates. more your style, the Cumberland River is home for bass, catfish, and panfish. While visiting our website, be sure to check out the General Store for new products coming this year. Park guests can also enjoy year around interpretive programs focusing on the The Friends would also like to take this opportunity to thank our sponsors: First cultural and natural history of the park. During the summer months recreation National Bank of Oneida, National Coal Corporation, Moth Wing Camo, Grand programs are planned daily. Folk dancing has been a long standing tradition at Vista Hotel, First Trust & Savings Bank, and Bank of McCreary County. Cumberland Falls. Line, folk, and square dancing is taught several nights a week from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Many other diverse activities are conducted such as crafts, games, outdoor skills and guided walks. Yes! I want to be a Friend of the Big South Fork. Cumberland Falls has been a resort since the 1870’s. The affluent traveled to Cumberland Falls by horse and wagon to reach the old inn that used to sit Enclosed is my gift of: above the falls. For over 100 years, vacationers to honeymooners have traveled ____ $1,000 Yahoo Falls Friend to enjoy the park’s beauty. Your trip to Eastern Kentucky would not be ____ $500 Honey Creek Friend complete without a visit to Cumberland Falls. ____ $250 Station Camp Friend ____ $100 Angel Falls Friend Several special events are planned through out the year. Call Cumberland Falls ____ $50 Blue Heron Friend P.O. Box 290 State Park at (606) 528-4121 for more information. ____ $25 Bandy Creek Friend Helenwood, Tennessee 37755 (423) 569-4556 Big South Fork Guide - 2006 - 12